What to Know About Running a Refrigerator in the Garage

For larger families, sometimes one refrigerator just isn't enough. Space is limited, and many households turn to a second refrigerator as a solution to store their fresh food. Whether it is a beer fridge, snack fridge, or a backup fridge, the added space and convenience of a second refrigerator is often worth the investment. Many people keep their second refrigerators in the garage, but the sweltering summer heat can present problems if your garage isn't climate controlled.

Read the tips below to help keep your refrigerator from working too hard in a hot garage, which can lead to high energy bills and even a blown compressor.

• Make sure to have proper wiring. Kitchens are specially wired for household appliances, but garages typically aren't. Make sure the outlet in your garage is powerful enough to supply an adequate amount of electricity to your refrigerator. If your outlet is too weak, your refrigerator won't have the necessary power to produce cold air, and there will be added strain on the motor.
• Keep it cool. Most refrigerator manufacturers recommend keeping the appliance in a climate which does not exceed 110°F. If your garage is not climate controlled, try auxiliary methods to help keep it cool such as supplemental air conditioning and fans, improved ventilation, or insulation to keep the heat out.
• Selective storing. If possible, try not to keep perishable items in your garage refrigerator. Beverages and pantry foods are good to store here because they will not spoil if the temperature gets too high. On the other hand, foods like raw meat, dairy, and eggs should always be kept in the main fridge in case the one in the garage becomes too warm to function properly.
• Fill it up. You may have heard that keeping a fridge well-stocked better helps it maintain its internal temperature when the door is opened. This is true, and it is especially important when dealing with the refrigerator in your garage. If you don't have enough food to keep it full, stock it up with gallons of water to limit the amount of warm air that enters your fridge when you open the door.

If your refrigerator is in danger of failing, it will generally give warning signs such as loud noises or leaks. If you suspect that your fridge in on the fritz, give the experts at Speedy Refrigerator Service a call. With over 75 years of experience and the know-how to repair any make or model, we are New York's number one choice for all refrigerator and freezer repairs. Our phone lines are open 24/7 and we offer same-day repairs, so give us a call any time at 866-782-9376.

Source:

San Francisco Chronicle